Washing a hatchback

Hatchbacks are about the easiest car to put through a touchless wash. The one part that needs attention is the back: the hatch, its seal and the rear wiper, which sits right where the spray hits hardest.

Hatchback after a wash, illustrative scene

Check before you drive in

It takes a minute. The restrictions are posted at the entrance.

Rear wiper parked and off
Switch the rear wiper off and make sure it is resting in its parked position. Some cars run the rear wiper automatically when you shift into reverse with the front wipers on, so turn the front wipers off too.
Hatch fully latched
Push down on the hatch until it clicks shut. A hatch on the first catch looks closed but can let water run into the cargo area and onto the spare tire well.
Roof rails and carriers
Take off bike racks and cargo boxes before you come. Bare factory roof rails are common, but anything mounted on the roof should be checked against the restrictions posted at the entrance.
Look at the rear bumper afterwards
The flat back of a hatchback collects a film of road spray, especially in winter. If it still looks grey after the wash, that area is a good one to give extra attention next time.

Which wash for a hatchback

Most hatchbacks are city runabouts, and for regular cleaning the body is what gets dirty, so Quick Wash does the job. In winter, or after gravel roads, choose Full Wash so the underside gets rinsed as well.

Try the wash yourself